Security Camera Permit Requirements in Detroit, Michigan

Quick Answer: Security camera installations in Detroit, Michigan may require permits from the Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED), especially for commercial projects involving new electrical work. Michigan does not require a general low-voltage license, but security alarm system contractors must be licensed through LARA. Michigan is a one-party consent state for audio recording.

Does Detroit Require Permits for Security Cameras?

Permit requirements in Detroit depend on the scope of the installation and whether electrical work is involved. The Detroit Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED) oversees building permits.

Permits may be required for:

• Commercial CCTV systems with new electrical circuits
• Installations in historic districts
• Systems requiring structural modifications
• Large-scale surveillance systems in commercial buildings
• Cameras integrated with fire alarm systems

Permits generally not required for:

• Residential camera systems using existing electrical
• Wireless/battery-powered cameras
• Simple plug-in camera systems
• Low-voltage systems not involving electrical modifications

Detroit BSEED Contact Information

Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department
Coleman A. Young Municipal Center
2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 402
Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 224-2733
Website: detroitmi.gov/bseed

Michigan Contractor Licensing

Michigan has specific licensing requirements administered by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA):

Security Alarm System Contractor License

Required for selling, installing, maintaining, or repairing alarm systems including security cameras integrated with alarm systems:

• Experience requirement: 3 years as contractor on own account, or 4 years as employee of licensed contractor
• Application: Through LARA licensing portal
• Examination: Required
• Continuing education: Required for renewal

Fire Alarm Specialty Technician

Required for fire alarm system work, including cameras integrated with fire systems:

• Age requirement: At least 20 years old
• Certification: NICET Level II or equivalent in fire alarm systems
• Examination: Required

Exemptions

Michigan law provides important exemptions:

• Security alarm system installation is exempt from electrical contractor licensing
• Municipalities cannot require permits specifically for installing security alarm systems
• Home monitoring and business monitoring systems have installation exemptions

For complete licensing details, see our Michigan Low Voltage License Guide.

Fees and Timeline

Fee Type	Typical Cost	Notes
Electrical Permit	$75-200	If electrical work involved
Plan Review	Varies	Large commercial only
Inspection	Included	If permit required
LARA Security License	$200	Contractor application

Timeline: Permit approval typically takes 5-10 business days for standard projects. Historic district installations may require additional review.

Michigan Surveillance and Recording Laws

Michigan has specific laws governing surveillance recording that contractors and property owners must understand:

Video Recording

• Public areas: Video recording permitted in public and semi-public areas
• Private property: Recording your own property is generally permitted
• Privacy restrictions: Cameras cannot be installed in areas with reasonable expectation of privacy
• Prohibited locations: Bathrooms, locker rooms, bedrooms, dressing rooms
• Signage: Businesses should post visible signs notifying of video surveillance

Audio Recording

Michigan is a one-party consent state for audio recording:

• At least one party to the conversation must consent to recording
• Security cameras with audio have additional legal considerations
• Recommendation: Post conspicuous audio recording notices or disable audio

Neighboring Properties

• Cameras cannot be directed toward spaces where neighbors have reasonable privacy expectation
• Avoid capturing neighboring residences or businesses
• Document camera angles during installation

Historic District Considerations

Detroit has numerous historic districts with additional requirements:

• Historic District Commission review: May be required for exterior installations
• Aesthetic considerations: Camera placement and visibility may be restricted
• Notable districts: Corktown, Indian Village, Boston-Edison, Palmer Woods
• Recommendation: Contact BSEED before installation in historic areas

Residential vs. Commercial Projects

Residential Security Cameras

• Single-family: Generally no permit for basic camera systems
• Wireless/battery systems: No electrical permit needed
• Wired systems: May need electrical permit if new circuits added
• HOA requirements: Check with association for exterior camera rules

Commercial Security Cameras

• New electrical circuits: Electrical permit typically required
• Alarm integration: Security alarm contractor license required
• Fire system integration: Fire alarm specialty license required
• Historic buildings: Additional review may be needed

Pro Tips from Contractors

1. Know the Exemptions: Michigan law exempts security alarm system installation from general electrical licensing and prohibits municipalities from requiring permits specifically for security alarm work. Understand what applies to your project.

2. Check Historic Status: Detroit has many historic districts. Verify property status before planning exterior camera installations.

3. Post Signage: Michigan law recommends businesses post visible video surveillance notices. This reduces liability and serves as a deterrent.

4. Document Camera Angles: Before installation, document that cameras only view the client's property and public areas to avoid neighbor disputes.

5. Audio Considerations: While Michigan is one-party consent for audio, posting audio recording notices is still best practice for commercial installations.

6. LARA Licensing: If installing alarm-integrated security systems, ensure you have the proper Security Alarm System Contractor license through LARA.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Detroit before they reach bid boards?

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Michigan and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Guides

• Michigan Low Voltage License Requirements
• All Permit Guides